Breakthrough New York hasn’t just helped Gabby Vargas get to college, but through college.

The 18-year-old is nearing completion of her freshman year at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut. She says her connection with BTNY didn’t end the moment she graduated from high school.

“I have someone to advise me, who checks in with me,” she says.

She is part of BTNY’s new pilot College Persistence Program, which is helping 13 students this academic year. The program endeavors to provide strong support so students succeed instead of struggle during their first year of college.

“Having an outside source is awesome,” she says. “If I need advice about a study plan or finals, or just want to talk about any frustrations, there is always someone there ready to offer advice and ensure my problems are resolved.”

BTNY has helped where her family was not equipped. Gabby is the first in her family to attend college, and so her family wasn’t knowledgeable about how to resolve some situations. “It has been great to work with BTNY’s support,” she says.

Gabby is now considering a major in economics or neuroscience.

Her commitment to education was infused during her previous six years with BTNY. “I owe Breakthrough New York for all of my successes,” she says.